This past week, many Americans became fixated on a certain groundhog in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania to tell them whether it’s going to be a long winter or an early spring. I must confess that since I was a little kid, I wake up on that day each year with great anticipation and excitement about seeing America’s favorite marmot, Phil, perform his prognosticating duties. Not to be outdone, in recent years, Texas has searched far and wide to find our own famous four –legged forecasters. If you’re not already aware, Prairie Dog Pete and Bee Cave Bob, an armadillo, are quickly developing a loyal following across the Lone Star State.

The International & Great Northern Railroad (I-GN) was formed in 1873 and grew across East Texas. It rolled into Madisonville in September, 1903. A photo of many hatted men surrounding a steam engine was captioned “Woodsmen of the World greet the first train to arrive in Madisonville, Texas.” For 41 years, trains made daily trips from Navasota to Madisonville. In the beginning, the trip was made by combinations of passenger and freight cars, but later there were separate freight and passenger trains.

On January 25th, 1839, the Republic of Texas adopted the flag we know and love today: a red and white stripe with a single star set in a sea of blue. Many symbols were discussed to represent our beloved state, but I think that Lone Star meant something very special to those who created our state flag. Every state looks to Texas as the guiding star for different reasons. Our rich history of prudent fiscal policy, limited governance, personal responsibility, private property rights, and strong familyvalues are just a few of those reasons. Our Governor recently touted that Texas leads the nation in jobs, industry, energy and infrastructure. We are the best state to start a business, homeownership exceeds the national rate, and our state’s economy is the 9th largest in the world. As we celebrate the 182nd anniversary of our Texas flag, my prayer is we continue to serve as a shining star and beacon of opportunity for generations to come.

Charles Temme is a Leon County resident but conducts much of his day-to-day business in Madisonville. He and wife Maisie are devoted and very active members of First United Methodist Church here. They have grandchildren that live here and attend school here. If home is indeed where the heart is, that last makes Charles ours.

In recent days our country has endured great challenges. These trials were met with great bravery from law enforcement who put themselves in the line of danger to protect the United States Capitol from civil unrest. Similarly, facing credible threats, an additional deployment of Texas State Troopers and National Guardsmen have been carefully watching over your State Capitol to ensure that a similar incident does not take place in Austin. Our capitol buildings should be respected for what they are - enduring symbols of our people and their government. Appreciation and respect for those who protect these buildings should be a bipartisan sentiment. All of us, no matter race, color, creed, or party affiliation should be grateful for law enforcement’s presence and commitment to public safety in these challenging times.

In celebration of School Board Appreciation Month, I hope that all parents, teachers, and students will join me in recognition our local School Board Members who have dedicated themselves to the betterment of Texas children. To all the devoted trustees, whose commitment to education is helping build the foundation of our state’s future - a resounding thank you! I sincerely appreciate all of your hard work, and hope you will see my office as a partner in our shared goal to help the students of Texas succeed.